Portable moisture analyzer for natural gas

ABSTRACT

Methods, devices, and systems are provided for analyzing the moisture content in natural gas. In one embodiment, a portable moisture analyzer system is provided and can include a moisture analyzer and a housing. The moisture analyzer can include a tunable diode laser absorption spectrometer (TDLAS) and a natural gas sample conditioning system. The TDLAS can be configured to detect water vapor content within a natural gas sample. The sample conditioning system can be in fluid communication with the TDLAS and can be configured to condition at least one of temperature, flow rate, and pressure of a natural gas sample. The housing can be configured to receive the moisture analyzer therein and to protect the moisture analyzer from vibration and/or shock.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/854,495, filed on Dec. 26, 2017, entitled “Portable Moisture Analyzerfor Natural Gas,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/439,273, filed on Dec. 27, 2016, entitled “PortableMoisture Analyzer For Natural Gas,” which is incorporated by referencesin their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Moisture, such as water vapor, can be an undesirable component found innatural gas extracted from underground. In one aspect, water vapor canreduce the fuel value (energy generated by combustion per unit mass) ofthe natural gas. In another aspect, the water vapor can condense intoliquid and this liquid can cause corrosion of natural gas extraction,transport, and storage equipment. In a further aspect, liquid water candamage equipment utilizing the natural gas, such as turbines. For thesereasons, it can be desirable to limit the concentration of water vaporpresent in a natural gas stream.

In some instances, it can be standard practice to periodically orcontinuously measure water vapor concentration of a natural gas streamat different locations of a gas extraction system, such as extractionsites, pipelines, and storage sites, to verify that the natural gasstream at these locations meets water vapor content limits. In oneexample, fixed monitoring facilities can be established for natural gasmeasurement on-site. In another example, natural gas samples can beacquired and transported to a remote laboratory for analysis.

SUMMARY

In general, devices, systems, and methods and devices are provided fordetermining the moisture content of gas extracted from a gas source and,in particular, natural gas flowing through a pipeline.

In one embodiment, a portable moisture analyzer system is provided andit can include a moisture analyzer, an inner housing, and an outerhousing. The moisture analyzer can include a moisture sensor, a fluidconduit network, a sample conditioning system, and an instrument panel.The moisture sensor can be configured to detect water vapor contentwithin a gas sample and output a moisture signal including datarepresenting the detected water vapor content. The fluid conduit networkcan be in fluid communication with the moisture sensor and the fluidconduit network can extend between an inlet and an outlet. The fluidconduit network can also be configured to receive, at the inlet, a flowof a raw gas sample from a gas source. The sample conditioning systemcan include one or more conditioning devices positioned along the fluidconduit network, between the inlet and the moisture sensor. Theconditioning devices can be configured to adjust at least one ofpressure and flow rate of a raw gas sample flow received by the fluidconduit network and filter particulate and liquid contaminants from theraw gas sample flow to provide a conditioned gas sample flow to themoisture sensor. The instrument panel can include opposed first andsecond sides. Each of the conditioning devices and a portion of thefluid conduit network can be mounted on the first side of the instrumentpanel. The inner housing can define one or more inner housing cavitiesdimensioned to receive a portion of the moisture analyzer including themoisture sensor, and the inner housing can be coupled to the first sideof the instrument panel. The outer housing can define an outer housingcavity dimensioned to receive the inner housing and the moistureanalyzer. The outer housing and the inner housing can be configured toattenuate vibration transmitted therethrough to the moisture sensor.

In another embodiment, the outer housing can include a base and a lidconfigured to reversibly seal to the base. The outer housing can besubstantially fluid-tight when the lid is sealed to the base.

In another embodiment, the moisture sensor can include a laserabsorption spectrometer. The spectrometer can include a reversiblyattachable portion including a mirror. The inner housing can alsoinclude a channel extending through a sidewall that can be dimensionedfor receipt of the reversibly attachable portion. The spectrometer canbe positioned within the inner housing such that the reversiblyattachable portion can be accessible through the channel.

In another embodiment, the fluid conduit network can include a pluralityof conduits forming an inlet portion, a conditioning portion, a sensorportion, and an outlet portion. The inlet portion can extend between theinlet and the conditioning portion and the inlet portion can be mountedon the first side of the instrument panel. The conditioning portion canextend between the inlet portion and the sensor portion and theconditioning portion can be mounted on the first side of the instrumentpanel. The conditioning devices can be positioned along the conditioningportion. The sensor portion can extend between the conditioning portionand the outlet portion. The moisture sensor can be positioned along thesensor portion. The outlet portion can extend between the sensor portionand the outlet, and the outlet portion can be mounted on the first sideof the instrument panel.

In another embodiment, the inlet portion can include an isolation valveconfigured to regulate the raw flow rate within the moisture analyzerunder control of an isolation control interface. The isolation controlinterface can be accessible from the second side of the instrumentpanel.

In another embodiment, the inlet portion further can include an inletpressure gage configured to measure pressure of the raw gas sample flowprior to receipt by the conditioning portion. The inlet pressure gagecan be mounted to the instrument panel and readable from the second sideof the instrument panel.

In another embodiment, the one or more conditioning devices can includea separator configured to filter liquids from the raw gas sample flowand provide a filtered gas sample flow having a liquid content less thana threshold liquid volume.

In another embodiment, the fluid conduit network can also include abypass portion extending between the first conditioning device and theoutlet. The bypass portion can include a bypass valve. The bypassportion can be configured to receive a bypass flow including liquidsfiltered from the raw gas sample at a bypass flow rate. The bypass valvecan be configured to regulate the bypass flow rate under control of abypass control interface accessible from the second side of theinstrument panel.

In another embodiment, the separator can be accessible through thesecond side of the instrument panel for removal from the sampleconditioning system.

In another embodiment, the separator can be configured to substantiallyinhibit a flow of a raw gas sample causing a pressure drop exceeding athreshold pressure decrease from entering the conditioning portion.

In another embodiment, the one or more conditioning devices can includea sample valve interposed between the separator and the moisture sensor.The sample valve can be configured to regulate a flow rate of thefiltered gas sample flow under control of a sample control interface.The sample control interface can be accessible from the second side ofthe instrument panel. The sample valve can provide a conditioned gassample flow having a flow rate within a predetermined flow rate range.

In another embodiment, the fluid conduit network can include a reliefportion extending between the inlet portion and a relief outlet and arelief vent positioned along the relief portion. The relief vent can beconfigured to permit the flow of raw gas from the inlet portion to therelief outlet under control of a relief control interface. The reliefcontrol interface can be accessible from the second side of theinstrument panel.

The plurality of conduits can include a first set of conduits formingthe inlet portion, the conditioning portion, and outlet portion and asecond set of conduits forming the sensor portion. At least a portion ofthe second set of conduits can be less rigid than the first set ofconduits.

In another embodiment, the portable moisture analyzer system can includea temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a controller. Thetemperature sensor can be configured to output a temperature signalincluding data representing a measured temperature of a conditioned gassample flow received by the moisture sensor. The pressure sensor can beconfigured to output a pressure signal including data representing ameasured pressure of a conditioned gas sample flow received by themoisture sensor. The controller can be configured to receive themoisture signal, the temperature signal and the pressure signal, anddetermine an adjusted moisture content for the conditioned gas sampleflow based upon the received moisture signal, temperature signal, andpressure signal.

In another embodiment, the weight of the portable moisture analyzersystem can be less than or equal to 50 lbs.

Methods for moisture content analysis are also provided. In oneembodiment, a method can include opening a reversibly sealable outerhousing of a moisture analyzer system to reveal an instrument panel. Inanother embodiment, the method can include providing, from a gas sourceto an inlet of the moisture analyzer positioned on the instrument panel,a raw gas sample flow at a raw gas pressure and a raw gas flow rate. Ina further embodiment, the method can include adjusting, by a sampleconditioning system of a moisture analyzer disposed within an outerhousing cavity in the outer housing, at least one of the raw gaspressure and the raw gas flow rate to provide a conditioned gas sampleflow. At least a portion of a sample conditioning system can be mountedto a first side of an instrument panel of the moisture analyzer, and oneor more user interface objects configured to control the sampleconditioning system can be mounted to a second side of the instrumentpanel. In a further embodiment, the method can include receiving, by amoisture sensor of the moisture analyzer, the conditioned gas samplefrom the sample conditioning system. The moisture sensor can be mountedwithin and spaced apart from an inner housing mounted to the first sideof the instrument panel. The outer housing and the inner housing can beconfigured to attenuate vibration transmitted therethrough to themoisture sensor.

In another embodiment, the method can include receiving, by a controllerin communication with the moisture sensor, a moisture signal, a pressuresignal, and a temperature signal, each signal respectively includingdata representing a moisture content, a pressure, and a temperature ofthe conditioned gas sample flow received by the moisture sensor. Themethod can also include determining, by the controller, an adjustedmoisture content based upon the received moisture signal, temperaturesignal, and pressure signal.

In another embodiment, the gas source can be a natural gas pipeline.

In another embodiment, the method can also include, prior to providingthe raw gas sample flow to the inlet of the moisture analyzer,transporting the moisture analyzer system to the site of the gaspipeline. The portable moisture analyzer can weigh less than or equal tofifty lbs.

In another embodiment, the moisture sensor can include a spectrometerincluding a reversibly attachable portion including a mirror. The innerhousing can also include a channel extending through a sidewall that canbe dimensioned for receipt of the reversibly attachable portion. Thespectrometer can be positioned within the inner housing such that thereversibly attachable portion can be accessible through the channel whenthe inner housing and the moisture analyzer are removed from the outerhousing while coupled together.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other features will be more readily understood from thefollowing detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one exemplary embodiment of anoperating environment including a portable moisture analyzer system;

FIG. 2 is a perspective, disassembled view of one exemplary embodimentof the portable moisture analyzer system of FIG. 1 including an outerhousing, an inner housing, and a moisture analyzer;

FIG. 3 is a perspective, disassembled view illustrating the innerhousing and the moisture analyzer of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment ofan instrument panel of the moisture analyzer of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of afluid conduit network of the moisture analyzer of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6A is a top view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of theportable moisture analyzer system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating another exemplary embodiment ofthe portable moisture analyzer system of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating one exemplary embodiment of amethod for moisture analysis of a natural gas sample.

It is noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawingsare intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matterdisclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting thescope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Moisture, such as water vapor, can be an undesirable component found innatural gas extracted from underground. It can be desirable to measurethe moisture content of extracted natural gas to ensure that thismoisture content does not exceed certain limits. Moisture contentmeasurements can involve removing a natural gas sample from a naturalgas stream (e.g., from a pipeline), conditioning the natural gas sample,and providing the conditioned natural gas sample to an analyzer todetermine its moisture content. Conditioning can adjust one or moreparameters of the natural gas sample, such as flow rate, pressure, andtemperature, to within predetermined ranges that are suitable for safeoperation of the analyzer and ensure that moisture content measurementsof different samples are made under nominally identical conditions.However, some existing measurement approaches, such as fixed, on-sitefacilities and transportation of natural gas samples to remotelaboratory facilities are problematic. In one example, fixed facilitiescan be costly to establish and operate. In another example, transportingnatural gas samples can be time consuming and carries a risk of samplecontamination. These challenges can be further magnified when naturalgas samples are to be measured at remote locations, such as pipelines.Accordingly, a portable moisture analyzer system and methods for usingthe same are provided. The portable moisture analyzer system can includea moisture sensor and a sample conditioning system in a self-containedform factor and housed within protective enclosures. The protectiveenclosures can be configured to protect the moisture sensor and a sampleconditioning system from vibration and shock, facilitating transportfrom one test point to another on a natural gas pipeline whileconcurrently preserving sample conditioning functionality, safety,measurement speed, and measurement accuracy.

Embodiments of the portable moisture analyzer system are discussed belowin the context of measuring water vapor content of natural gas samplesreceived from a pipeline. However, the disclosed embodiments can beemployed for measurement of gas samples received from any gas source.Further, the disclosed embodiments can be configured to measure tracelevel of contaminants in natural gas samples other than water vaporwithout limit.

FIG. 1 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of an operating environment100 including a portable moisture analyzer system 102 configured tomeasure moisture content of a flow of natural gas 104 contained within apipeline 106. The pipeline 106 can include a port 108 configured toallow extraction of a flow of natural gas flow from the pipeline,referred to as a raw natural gas sample flow or raw sample flow 104 r.The portable moisture analyzer system 102 can include an outer housing110, an inner housing 112, and a moisture analyzer 114. As discussed indetail below, the outer housing 110 can be reversibly sealed andconfigured to contain the inner housing 112 and the moisture analyzer114, while the inner housing 112 can also be coupled to a portion of themoisture analyzer 114.

Prior to use, the portable moisture analyzer system 102 can betransported to a designated pipeline location with the outer housing 110in a sealed position. During transport, the outer housing 110 canprotect the moisture analyzer 114 from the environment. In certainembodiments, when in the sealed state, the outer housing 110 can provideingress protection at an IP66 level, as defined by internationalstandard EN 60529 (e.g., British BS EN 60529:1992, European IEC60509:1989). The IP66 protection level represents intrusion protectionsufficient to protect against dust that can harm electrical equipmentand moisture protection sufficient to protect against low pressure waterjets in all directions. The outer housing 110 and the inner housing 112can further protect the moisture analyzer 114 from vibration and shockencountered during transport.

In use, the outer housing 110 can be opened to provide access to themoisture analyzer 114. The pipeline 106 can be placed in fluidcommunication with the moisture analyzer 114 (e.g., via a conduit) toprovide the raw sample flow 104 r. Upon receipt of a raw sample flow 104r, the moisture analyzer 114 can condition one or more of the flow rate,pressure, and temperature of the raw sample flow to provide aconditioned sample flow. This conditioned sample flow can besubsequently analyzed to determine its moisture content.

FIG. 2 is a perspective, disassembled view of one exemplary embodimentof a portable moisture analyzer system 200 illustrating an outer housing202, an inner housing 204, and a moisture analyzer 206 in a disassembledview. As shown, the outer housing 202 is formed in a briefcase-like formfactor having a lid 210 pivotably attached to a base 212 at a hinge 214.The base 212 can define an outer housing cavity 216 dimensioned toreceive the inner housing 204 and the moisture analyzer 206. The lid 210can pivot between an open position, allowing access to the moistureanalyzer 206, and a closed position, where the lid 210 can form a sealwith the base 212. In certain embodiments, the seal can be asubstantially fluid-tight seal formed by contact between respectivefaces of the lid 210 and the base 212 that can inhibit ingress of fluidsand/or dust through the outer housing 202. The outer housing 202 caninclude attachment mechanisms 220 such as clasps, latches, and the liketo facilitate sealing of the outer housing 202 when the lid 210 isclosed.

The outer housing 202 can be formed from materials configured to protectthe moisture analyzer from physical damage. As an example, the outerhousing 202 can be formed from relatively strong and damage tolerantmaterials, such as metals, plastics, etc. In an exemplary embodiment,the outer housing 202 can be a Pelican™ case (Pelican Products, Inc.,Torrance Calif.). However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), theouter housing can adopt other form factors without limit.

FIG. 3 is a perspective, disassembled view illustrating the innerhousing 204 and the moisture analyzer 206. The moisture analyzer 206 caninclude an instrument panel 300, a fluid conduit network 302, a sampleconditioning system 304, and a moisture sensor 306. As discussed ingreater detail below, the sample conditioning system 304 and a portionof the fluid conduit network 302 can be mounted to a first side 300 a ofthe instrument panel 300 to improve the vibration and shock resistanceof the moisture analyzer 206. User interfaces for control of themoisture analyzer 206 can also be mounted to a second side 300 b of theinstrument panel 300, opposite the first side 300 a.

The inner housing 204 can be mounted to the first side 300 a of theinstrument panel 300 and encapsulate at least a portion of the moistureanalyzer 206 (e.g., the fluid conduit network 302, the sampleconditioning system 304, and the moisture sensor 306). Thus, when themoisture analyzer 206 and the inner housing 204 are placed within theouter housing 202, the moisture analyzer 206 can be substantiallyisolated from vibration and shock. The inner housing 204 can have anyshape suitable for encapsulating at least a portion of the moistureanalyzer 206, and for seating within the outer housing 202.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner housing 204 can be formed from oneor more layers of foam. The foam can be selected for one or morefunctional properties. In one aspect, the foam can be flame retardant(e.g., self-extinguishing). As an example, the foam can possess apredetermined flammability rating (e.g., UL 94 5VA). In another aspect,the foam can be anti-static and/or resistant to electrostatic discharge(ESD). In an additional aspect, the inner housing 204 can be configuredto limit the free volume for combustible gas to leak, thereby minimizingflammability hazards and enhancing safety of the portable moistureanalysis system. Suitable foam materials include, for example,cross-linked polyethylene. In certain embodiments, these features orother features of the foam can allow the portable moisture analyzersystem 200 to meet the Class 1 Division 2/Zone 2 hazardous areacertification as defined by the National Fire Protection Association(e.g., NFPA 70: National Electrical Code [NEC], 2017 edition) and/orcodified in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) 1910.399.That is, embodiments of the portable moisture analysis system 200 can becertified for use in environments containing ignitable levels offlammable/explosive gas during faults.

In a further aspect, the foam can possess predetermined mechanicalproperties configured to absorb shock and vibration while beingrelatively light-weight. As discussed below, embodiments of the portablemoisture analysis system 200 can be configured to weigh less than orequal to about 50 lbs., the one-man lift limit specified by the USOccupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).

As shown in FIG. 3, the inner housing 204 can include four layers 310,312, 314, 316. A first layer 310 can be positioned adjacent to theinstrument panel 300 and the first layer 310 can include a first innerhousing cavity 310 c. The first inner housing cavity 310 c can extendthrough the thickness of the first layer 310, and the first innerhousing cavity 310 c can be dimensioned to receive the fluid conduitnetwork 302 and the sample conditioning system 304 therethrough. Asecond layer 312 can be positioned adjacent to the first layer 310 andthe second layer 312 can include one or more second inner housingcavities 312 c. The second inner housing cavities 312 c can bedimensioned to seat a portion of the fluid conduit network 302 and thesample conditioning system 304.

As shown in FIG. 3, the moisture sensor 306 can be interposed betweenthe second layer 312 and a third layer 314. The third layer 314 can bepositioned adjacent to the second layer 312, and the third layer 314 caninclude one or more third inner housing cavities 314 c. The thirdhousing inner cavities 314 c can be dimensioned to seat a portion of themoisture sensor 306 (e.g., a lower portion). The second layer 312 caninclude additional inner housing cavities on a face opposite thatcontaining the second inner housing cavities 312 c (not shown) and theseadditional inner housing cavities of the third layer 314 can beconfigured to seat another portion of the moisture sensor 306 (e.g., anupper portion). A fourth layer 316 can be positioned adjacent to thethird layer 314 and opposite the second layer 312.

In certain embodiments, the moisture sensor 306 can be in the form of atunable diode laser absorption spectrometer (TDLAS). Embodiments of aTDLAS moisture sensor are discussed in detail in U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/310,333, filed on Mar. 18, 2016, and entitled “FluidAnalyzer Absorption Cell,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporatedby reference. In brief, a TDLAS can receive a natural gas sample withinan absorption cell and pass laser light having different wavelengthsthrough the natural gas sample. The TDLAS can include a mirror at oneend that is configured to reflect the light so as to increase the pathlength of the light and improve sensitivity of the TDLAS. The amount oflight absorbed at different wavelengths can be measured to generate anabsorption spectrum and peaks within the measured absorption spectrumcorresponding to moisture and natural gas can be identified. Accordingto Beer's Law, the amount of light absorbed by the natural gas samplecan be proportional to the amount of water vapor present in the path ofthe light, providing a direct measurement of moisture content that canbe represented in data output by the TDLAS in the form of one or moresignals.

Embodiments of the TDLAS can provide a number of advantages over othermoisture sensors. In one aspect, because the TDLAS employs light tomeasure moisture content of the natural gas sample, the TDLAS canmeasure changes in the moisture concentration of the natural gas samplevery rapidly. In another aspect, the response time of the TDLAS can belimited only by the time required for the natural gas sample to travelthrough the fluid conduit network to the TDLAS. As an example, theresponse time of the TDLAS can be less than about 10 sec. In a furtheraspect, the calibration of the TDLAS can remain stable for extended timeperiods (e.g., years), avoiding the need for frequent calibration thatcan be present in aluminum oxide moisture probes. In an additionalaspect, the TDLAS does not require differential measurement (e.g., witha scrubber to remove moisture content) as found in quartz crystalmicrobalance (QCM)-based analyzers. In another aspect, when employed tomeasure conditioned sample flows, as discussed in detail below, theTDLAS can provide parts per million by volume (PPMv)-level accuracy andrepeatability. This level of accuracy and reproducibility can becomparable to state-of-the-art fixed site and laboratory analyzers.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment ofthe instrument panel 300 and is discussed in conjunction with anembodiment of the fluid conduit network 302 illustrated in FIG. 5. Asshown, the fluid conduit network 302 can include an inlet 500 i and anoutlet 500 o accessible from the second side 300 b of the instrumentpanel 300. The inlet 500 i and the outlet 500 o can each be configuredto fluidly couple to a gas source such as a natural gas pipeline via afluid line (not shown) at the instrument panel 300. The inlet 500 i andthe outlet 500 o can further employ a quick connect/quick releasemechanism to facilitate coupling to the gas source.

The fluid conduit network 302 can include a plurality of conduitsextending from the inlet 500 i to the outlet 500 o and the conduits canform an inlet portion 502, a conditioning portion 504, a sensor portion506, and an outlet portion 510. At least a portion of the fluid conduitnetwork 302 can be mounted to the first side 300 a of the instrumentpanel 300 and, as discussed in detail below, a variety of flow controlvalves can be positioned along the fluid conduit network 302 forregulating flow of natural gas therethrough. The valves can be furthercontrolled by interfaces accessible from the second face of theinstrument panel 300.

The inlet portion 502 of the fluid conduit network 302 can extendbetween the inlet 500 i and the conditioning portion 504 and it can bemounted on the first side 300 a of the instrument panel 300. As shown,the inlet portion 502 includes an isolation valve 512 configured toallow or inhibit the raw sample flow 104 r from flowing through theinlet portion 502 under control of an isolation control interface 512 iaccessible from the second side 300 b of the instrument panel 300. Incertain embodiments, the isolation control interface 512 i can be arotatable knob coupled to the isolation valve 512.

The inlet portion 502 can also include a junction (union) J that is influid communication with an inlet pressure gage 514. The inlet pressuregage 514 can be configured to measure a pressure of the raw sample flow104 r prior to receipt by the conditioning portion 504. The inletpressure gage 514 can also be mounted to the instrument panel 300 andthe inlet pressure gage 514 can be readable from the second side 300 bof the instrument panel 300. So configured, a user can monitor an inletpressure of the raw sample flow 104 r entering the moisture analyzer 206from the gas source using the inlet pressure gage 514 and the user canturn on or off the raw sample flow 104 r using the isolation controlinterface 512 i.

The conditioning portion 504 can extend between the inlet portion 502and the sensor portion 506 and it can be mounted on the first side 300 aof the instrument panel 300. One or more conditioning devices of thesample conditioning system 304 can be positioned along the conditioningportion 504 for conditioning the raw sample flow 104 r. In anembodiment, the one or more conditioning devices can include a separator516 configured to filter liquids from the raw sample flow 104 r andprovide a filtered sample flow 520 f having a liquid content less than athreshold liquid volume. In certain embodiments, the separator 516 caninclude a membrane filter 516 m to filter out particulate contaminationin the gas sample, and the membrane filter 516 m can be accessiblethrough the second side 300 b of the instrument panel 300 for servicing,such as removal, replacement, and repair.

The fluid conduit network 302 can optionally include a bypass portion522 extending between the separator 516 and the outlet 500 o. The bypassportion 522 can be configured to receive a bypass flow 104 b at a bypassflow rate including liquids filtered from the raw sample flow 104. Thebypass portion 522 can also include a bypass valve 524 configured toregulate the bypass flow rate under control of a bypass controlinterface 524 i accessible from the second side 300 b of the instrumentpanel 300.

The separator 516 can also be configured to substantially inhibit a flowof the raw sample flow 104 r causing a pressure drop exceeding athreshold pressure decrease from entering the conditioning portion 504.As an example, the membrane filter 516 m can be configured to block apassage therethrough when the raw sample flow 104 r causes a pressuredecrease exceeding the threshold pressure drop.

The one or more conditioning devices can also include a sample valve 526interposed between the separator 516 and the moisture sensor 306. Thesample valve 526 can be configured to regulate a flow rate of thefiltered sample flow under control of a sample control interface 526 iaccessible from the second side 300 b of the instrument panel 300. Inthis manner, a conditioned sample flow 520 c having a flow rate within apredetermined flow rate range can be provided to the moisture sensor306. Furthermore, the bypass valve 524 and the sample valve 526 canprovide independent control of the flow rates of the bypass flow 104 band the conditioned sample flow 520 c such that the pressure of theconditioned sample flow 520 c can be regulated to achieve apredetermined pressure range or target (e.g., about 1 atm.).

The fluid conduit network 302 can also include a relief portion 530extending between the junction J and a relief outlet 532. The reliefportion 530 can include a relief vent 534 configured to permit flow ofthe raw sample flow 104 r from the inlet portion 502 to the reliefoutlet 532 under control of a relief control interface 534 i that isaccessible from the second side 300 b of the instrument panel 300. Incertain embodiments, the relief control interface 534 i can be a buttonor knob. In certain embodiments, the relief valve 534 can be a checkvalve configured to automatically open when the inlet pressure exceeds apredetermined value (e.g., about 50 psig). So configured, accidentalover-pressurization of the inlet portion 502 can be avoided.

The sensor portion 506 can extend between the conditioning portion 504and the outlet portion 510 and the moisture sensor 306 can be positionedalong the sensor portion 506. As discussed above, the moisture sensor306 can be a TDLAS and it can be configured to detect water vaporcontent within the conditioned sample flow and output a moisture signal536 m including data representing the measured water vapor content. Incontrast to the other portions of the fluid conduit network 302 (e.g.,502, 504, 510), part or all of the sensor portion 506 can be distancedfrom the instrument panel 300. This configuration can reflect that themoisture sensor 306 is not mounted to the instrument panel 300 butinstead embedded within the inner housing 204 for vibration isolation.To further facilitate vibration isolation of the moisture sensor 306, atleast a portion of the conduits of the sensor portion 506 can be formedfrom a material that is more compliant than a material forming theconduits of the other portions of the fluid conduit network 502, 504,510. As an example, the conduits forming the inlet portion 502, theconditioning portion 504, and the outlet portion 510 can be formed froma steel or steel alloy (e.g., a stainless steel alloy such as 316L SS),while the relatively flexible conduits 528 of the sensor portion 506 canbe formed from a plastic (PTFE)-lined stainless steel braided hoseassembly. Other materials having comparatively rigid and flexiblemechanical properties are also contemplated.

The sensor portion 506 can also include one or more additional sensors.In one aspect, the sensor portion can include a temperature sensor Tconfigured to output a temperature signal including data representing ameasured temperature of a conditioned sample flow 520 c received by themoisture sensor 306. The temperature sensor T can be in thermalcommunication with the moisture sensor 306 for measuring the temperatureof the conditioned sample flow 520 c. In another aspect, the sensorportion 506 can include a pressure sensor P configured to output apressure signal 536 p including data representing a measured pressure ofthe conditioned sample flow 520 c received by the moisture sensor 306.The pressure sensor P can be in hydraulic communication with themoisture sensor 306 for measuring the pressure of the conditioned sampleflow 520 c.

The outlet portion 510 can extend between the sensor portion 506 and theoutlet 500 o and the outlet portion 510 can be mounted on the secondside 300 b of the instrument panel 300. In certain embodiments, a flowmeter 540 can be positioned within the outlet portion 510, prior to theoutlet 500 o, for measurement of the flow rate of the conditioned sampleflow 520 c. As an example, the flow meter 540 can be a mass flow meter.Beneficially, in contrast to rotameters, a mass flow meter can beinsensitive to orientation, allowing the portable moisture analyzersystem 200 to be mounted in any orientation.

Embodiments of the valves are discussed above with reference to manuallyactuatable valves. However, in alternative embodiments, valves havingother actuation and control mechanisms can be employed without limit,such as electronically controlled valves.

In further embodiments, moisture analyzer 206 can further includeelectronics for acquiring, analyzing, storing, and/or communicating thesensor measurements. In one aspect, the moisture analyzer 206 caninclude a controller 542 mounted to the second side 300 b of theinstrument panel 300. The controller 542 can be in communication withthe moisture sensor 306, the pressure sensor P, and the temperaturesensor T. The controller 542 can be configured to receive the moisturesignal 536 m. In certain embodiments, the controller 542 can include aprocessor, memory, and/or other components necessary to executeinstructions capable of determining the moisture content from themoisture signal 536 m.

Generally, analysis of the moisture signal 536 m can assume conditionsof standard temperature and pressure (e.g., a temperature of about 25°C. and a pressure of about 1 atm.). Under circumstances where thetemperature and pressure of the conditioned sample flow 520 c deviatefrom standard temperature and pressure, such deviations can introduceerror into the moisture content measurement. Accordingly, the controller542 can also be configured to receive the pressure signal 536 p and thetemperature signal 536 t, and the controller 542 can also generate anadjusted moisture content measurement based upon the measuredtemperature and pressure.

The controller 542 can also be in communication with one or morehuman-machine interfaces (HMIs), such as a display 544 (e.g., a digitaldisplay such as an LCD), an input/output 546 (e.g., analog or digital),a keypad 548, and a network connection 550 (e.g., serial RS-232/RS-485,Ethernet). Measurements of pressure, temperature, and moisture contentcan be transmitted to any of these interfaces for further display orstorage. In some instances, a user can act upon the measurementsprovided to alter or improve the system.

Further embodiments of the instrument panel 300 can be configured toreceive electrical power from a power source for operating electricalcomponents of the moisture analyzer. In certain embodiments, theinstrument panel 300 can include a power input connector 552 forreceiving electrical power from power sources such as AC mains, DC(e.g., automotive), solar, and the like. In other embodiments, the powersource can be a battery 554. As an example, the battery 554 can be arechargeable battery (e.g., a Li-ion battery) that can allow operationof the portable moisture analyzer system without recharging from a powersource for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., about 10 hours) beforerequiring charging. Embodiments of the battery 554 can be configured forcharging from power sources such as AC mains, DC (e.g., automotive),solar, and the like. Embodiments of the battery 554 can also beconfigured for removal from the instrument panel 300 to facilitatecompliance with air cargo transport regulations and in-fieldreplacement. As shown in FIG. 4, the instrument panel 300 can alsoinclude indicators 556 (e.g., lights) for charge progress, chargecompletion, and remaining battery life (not shown). A power interface560 (e.g., a switch) can control the powered state of the moistureanalyzer 206 (e.g., off or on).

The instrument panel 300 can also be configured to allow the moistureanalyzer 206 to be serviced, off-line or in-service. In one aspect, theinstrument panel 300 can include handles 400 to facilitate removal ofthe moisture analyzer 206 from the outer housing 202 and/or the innerhousing 204. In another aspect, discussed above, the battery 554 and/orthe separator 516 can be removed from the moisture analyzer 206. As anexample, the separator 516 can include a removable cap mounted to thesecond side 300 b of the instrument panel 300 that can allow access tothe membrane filter 516 m. Removal of the cap can allow the membranefilter 516 m to be replaced.

In further embodiments, the moisture sensor 306 can be configured topermit cleaning and/or replacement of optical components such as the endmirror of a TDLAS cell, as discussed in U.S. Provisional Application No.62/310,333. Generally, trace liquids and/or solid contaminants containedwithin the raw sample flow 104 r can pass through the separator 516 andthey can deposit on the mirror of the absorption cell of the TDLAS overtime, partially or totally blocking the mirror. The mirror can beattached to a reversibly attachable portion 320 of the moisture analyzer206 and the inner housing 204 can include a channel 322 extendingthrough a sidewall that is dimensioned for receipt of the reversiblyattachable portion 320. As shown in FIG. 3, the channel 322 is splitinto a first channel portion 322 a formed within the second layer 312and a second channel portion 322 b formed within the third layer 314.The TDLAS sample absorption cell can be positioned within the innerhousing 204 such that the reversibly attachable portion 320 isaccessible through the channel 322. In this manner, the reversiblyattachable portion 320 can be detached from the TDLAS absorption cell,removed from the inner housing 204 via the channel 322, cleaned, andreattached to the TDLAS.

FIGS. 6A-6B are schematic diagrams illustrating top and bottom views ofanother embodiment of a portable moisture analyzer system 600 includingan outer housing 602. The portable moisture analyzer system 600 can bemodified with respect to the portable moisture analyzer system 200 inorder to allow visualization and/or access to certain components mountedto the instrument panel 300 without opening the outer housing 602.Because the outer housing 602 can provide a seal that prevents ingressof particles and/or liquids, similar to the outer housing 202, theportable moisture analyzer system 600 can be employed on-site formoisture content measurements for extended time periods (e.g., hours,days, months, weeks, etc.) without a user present.

As shown in FIG. 6A, a top surface 602 a of the portable moistureanalyzer system 600 can include a display port 604 (e.g., asubstantially transparent window) allowing visualization of the display544 and the keypad 548. In certain embodiments, the display port 604 canbe removed for access to the display 544 and keypad 548. In otherembodiments, the display 544 and/or the keypad 548 can be configured fortouchless actuation (e.g., magnetic), allowing a user to interact withthe display 544 and/or the keypad 548 without removing the display port604 or opening the outer housing 602.

As shown in FIG. 6B, a bottom surface 602 b of the portable moistureanalyzer system 600 can include a power input connector 606, a powerinterface 610, an inlet 612 i, an outlet 612 o, and an isolation controlinterface 614 i. Each of these components can operate similarly to theircounterparts in the portable moisture analyzer system 600 (e.g., powerinput connector 552, power interface 560, inlet 500 i, outlet 500 o, andisolation control interface 512 i).

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of amethod 700 for moisture analysis of natural gas samples. The method 700described below can be employed in conjunction with either of theportable moisture analyzer systems 200, 600.

In operation 702, a reversibly sealable outer housing of a moistureanalyzer system is opened to reveal an instrument panel. In certainembodiments, the outer housing can include a lid and a base and theouter housing can be opened by moving the lid.

In operation 704, a raw natural gas sample flow at a raw gas pressureand a raw gas flow rate can be provided from a natural gas source to aninlet of the moisture analyzer positioned on the instrument panel.

In operation 706, at least one of the raw gas pressure and the raw gasflow rate of the raw sample flow can be adjusted to provide aconditioned sample flow. As an example, the raw sample flow can beadjusted by a sample conditioning system of the moisture analyzerdisposed within an outer housing cavity in the outer housing. At least aportion of a sample conditioning system can be mounted to a first sideof the instrument panel of the moisture analyzer, and one or more userinterface objects configured to control the sample conditioning systemcan be mounted to a second side of the instrument panel.

In operation 710, a moisture sensor can receive the conditioned naturalgas sample from the sample conditioning system. The moisture sensor canbe mounted within, and spaced apart from, an inner housing mounted tothe first side of the instrument panel. The outer housing and the innerhousing can be configured to attenuate vibration and/or shocktransmitted therethrough to the moisture sensor.

Exemplary technical effects of the methods, systems, and devicesdescribed herein can include, by way of non-limiting example, portablemoisture analysis of natural gas within transport networks. In oneaspect, embodiments of the disclosed portable moisture analyzer systemcan provide conditioning of natural gas samples prior to moisturecontent measurement. This conditioning can provide accurate andrepeatable measurements of moisture content. In another aspect,embodiments of the disclosed portable moisture analyzer system can beself-contained and rugged enough to be transported from one test pointto another on a natural gas transport/storage network (e.g., apipeline). As an example, the portable moisture analyzer system can beable to withstand transport vibration and shock while preserving sampleconditioning functionality, optical alignment, and safety. In a furtheraspect, user inputs and controls can be mounted to an instrument panelfor ease of access while vibration sensitive optical components andelectronics are immersed in vibration damping and flame-retardantmaterial (e.g., foam) to improve vibration and impact resistance.

The subject matter described herein can be implemented in analogelectronic circuitry, digital electronic circuitry, and/or in computersoftware, firmware, or hardware, including the structural meansdisclosed in this specification and structural equivalents thereof, orin combinations of them. The subject matter described herein can beimplemented as one or more computer program products, such as one ormore computer programs tangibly embodied in an information carrier(e.g., in a machine-readable storage device), or embodied in apropagated signal, for execution by, or to control the operation of,data processing apparatus (e.g., a programmable processor, a computer,or multiple computers). A computer program (also known as a program,software, software application, or code) can be written in any form ofprogramming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, andit can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or asa module, component, sub-routine, or other unit suitable for use in acomputing environment. A computer program does not necessarilycorrespond to a file. A program can be stored in a portion of a filethat holds other programs or data, in a single file dedicated to theprogram in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files thatstore one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). Acomputer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or onmultiple computers at one site or distributed across multiple sites andinterconnected by a communication network.

The processes and logic flows described in this specification, includingthe method steps of the subject matter described herein, can beperformed by one or more programmable processors executing one or morecomputer programs to perform functions of the subject matter describedherein by operating on input data and generating output. The processesand logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus of the subjectmatter described herein can be implemented as, special purpose logiccircuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC(application-specific integrated circuit).

Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, byway of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, andany one or more processor of any kind of digital computer. Generally, aprocessor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory ora random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer area processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devicesfor storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will alsoinclude, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer datato, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g.,magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. Information carrierssuitable for embodying computer program instructions and data includeall forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of examplesemiconductor memory devices, (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memorydevices); magnetic disks, (e.g., internal hard disks or removabledisks); magneto-optical disks; and optical disks (e.g., CD and DVDdisks). The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, orincorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

To provide for interaction with a user, the subject matter describedherein can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., aCRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, fordisplaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device,(e.g., a mouse or a trackball), by which the user can provide input tothe computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide forinteraction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to theuser can be any form of sensory feedback, (e.g., visual feedback,auditory feedback, or tactile feedback), and input from the user can bereceived in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

The techniques described herein can be implemented using one or moremodules. As used herein, the term “module” refers to computing software,firmware, hardware, and/or various combinations thereof. At a minimum,however, modules are not to be interpreted as software that is notimplemented on hardware, firmware, or recorded on a non-transitoryprocessor readable recordable storage medium (i.e., modules are notsoftware per se). Indeed “module” is to be interpreted to always includeat least some physical, non-transitory hardware such as a part of aprocessor or computer. Two different modules can share the same physicalhardware (e.g., two different modules can use the same processor andnetwork interface). The modules described herein can be combined,integrated, separated, and/or duplicated to support variousapplications. Also, a function described herein as being performed at aparticular module can be performed at one or more other modules and/orby one or more other devices instead of or in addition to the functionperformed at the particular module. Further, the modules can beimplemented across multiple devices and/or other components local orremote to one another. Additionally, the modules can be moved from onedevice and added to another device, and/or can be included in bothdevices.

The subject matter described herein can be implemented in a computingsystem that includes a back-end component (e.g., a data server), amiddleware component (e.g., an application server), or a front-endcomponent (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface ora web browser through which a user can interact with an implementationof the subject matter described herein), or any combination of suchback-end, middleware, and front-end components. The components of thesystem can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital datacommunication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communicationnetworks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network(“WAN”), e.g., the Internet.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification andclaims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation thatcould permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basicfunction to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a termor terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are notto be limited to the precise value specified. In at least someinstances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision ofan instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout thespecification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/orinterchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-rangescontained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

Certain exemplary embodiments will have been described to provide anoverall understanding of the principles of the structure, function,manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosedherein. One or more examples of these embodiments have been illustratedin the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understandthat the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein andillustrated in the drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments andthat the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims.The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplaryembodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Suchmodifications and variations are intended to be included within thescope of the present invention. Further, in the present disclosure,like-named components of the embodiments generally have similarfeatures, and thus within a particular embodiment each feature of eachlike-named component is not necessarily fully elaborated upon.

One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantagesof the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly,the present application is not to be limited by what has beenparticularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appendedclaims. All publications and references cited herein are expresslyincorporated by reference in their entirety.

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable moisture analyzer system, comprising:a moisture analyzer including, a moisture sensor configured to detectwater vapor content within a gas sample and output a moisture signalincluding data representing the detected water vapor content, a fluidconduit network in fluid communication with the moisture sensor andextending between an inlet and an outlet, wherein the fluid conduitnetwork is configured to receive, at the inlet, a flow of a raw gassample from a sample gas source at a raw flow rate; one or moreconditioning devices positioned within the fluid conduit network betweenthe inlet and the moisture sensor, wherein the conditioning devicesinclude one or more valves configured to adjust at least one of pressureand flow rate of a raw gas sample flow received by the fluid conduitnetwork and a seperate configured to filter particulate and liquidcontaminants from the raw gas sample flow to provide a conditioned gassample flow to the moisture sensor, and an instrument panel includingopposed first and second sides, wherein each of the conditioning devicesand a portion of the fluid conduit network are mounted on the first sideof the instrument panel; and an outer housing defining an outer housingcavity dimensioned to receive the moisture analyzer.
 2. The portablemoisture analyzer system of claim 1, wherein the outer housing includesa base and a lid configured to reversibly seal to the base, and whereinthe outer housing is substantially fluid-tight when the lid is sealed tothe base.
 3. The portable moisture analyzer of claim 1, wherein themoisture sensor comprises a laser absorption spectrometer.
 4. Theportable moisture analyzer of claim 3, further comprising an innerhousing dimensioned for receipt within the outer housing cavity, whereinthe spectrometer comprises a reversibly attachable portion including amirror, wherein the inner housing further comprises a channel extendingthrough a sidewall that is dimensioned for receipt of the reversiblyattachable portion, and wherein the spectrometer is positioned withinthe inner housing such that the reversibly attachable portion isaccessible through the channel.
 5. The portable moisture analyzer ofclaim 1, wherein the fluid conduit network includes an inlet portion, aconditioning portion, a sensor portion, and an outlet portion; whereinthe inlet portion extends from the inlet to the conditioning portion andis mounted on the first side of the instrument panel; wherein theconditioning portion extends between the inlet portion and the sensorportion and is mounted on the first side of the instrument panel, andwherein the conditioning devices are positioned within the conditioningportion; wherein the sensor portion extends between the conditioningportion and the outlet portion, and wherein the moisture sensor ispositioned along the sensor portion; and wherein the outlet portionextends from the sensor portion the outlet and is mounted on the firstside of the instrument panel.
 6. The portable moisture analyzer of claim5, wherein the inlet portion comprises an isolation valve configured toregulate the raw flow rate within the moisture analyzer under control ofan isolation control interface accessible from the second side of theinstrument panel.
 7. The portable moisture analyzer of claim 5, whereinthe inlet portion further comprises an inlet pressure gage configured tomeasure a pressure of the raw gas sample flow prior to receipt by theconditioning portion, and wherein the inlet pressure gage is mounted tothe instrument panel and readable from the second side of the instrumentpanel.
 8. The portable moisture analyzer system of claim 5, wherein theseperator is configured to filter liquids from the raw gas sample flowand provide a filtered gas sample flow having a liquid content less thana threshold liquid volume.
 9. The portable moisture analyzer system ofclaim 8, wherein the fluid conduit network further comprises a bypassportion extending between the first conditioning device and the outletthat includes a bypass valve, wherein the bypass portion is configuredto receive a bypass flow including liquids filtered from the raw gassample at a bypass flow rate, and the bypass valve is configured toregulate the bypass flow rate under control of a bypass controlinterface accessible from the second side of the instrument panel. 10.The portable moisture analyzer system of claim 8, wherein the separatoris accessible through the second side of the instrument panel forremoval from the system.
 11. The portable moisture analyzer system ofclaim 8, wherein the separator is further configured to substantiallyinhibit a flow of a raw gas sample causing a pressure drop exceeding athreshold pressure decrease from entering the conditioning portion. 12.The portable moisture analyzer of claim 8, wherein the one or moreconditioning devices comprises a sample valve interposed between theseparator and the moisture sensor, and wherein the sample valve isconfigured to regulate a flow rate of the filtered gas sample flow undercontrol of a sample control interface accessible from the second side ofthe instrument panel to provide a conditioned gas sample flow having aflow rate within a predetermined flow rate range.
 13. The portablemoisture analyzer system of claim 5, wherein the fluid conduit networkfurther comprises a relief portion extending between the inlet portionand a relief outlet and a relief vent positioned along the reliefportion, and wherein the relief vent is configured to permit the flow ofraw gas from the inlet portion to the relief outlet under control of arelief control interface accessible from the second side of theinstrument panel.
 14. The portable moisture analyzer of claim 5, whereinthe plurality of conduits comprises a first set of conduits forming theinlet portion, the conditioning portion, and outlet portion and a secondset of conduits forming the sensor portion, and wherein at least aportion of the second set of conduits is less rigid than the second setof conduits.
 15. The portable moisture analyzer of claim 1, furthercomprising: a temperature sensor configured to output a temperaturesignal including data representing a measured temperature of aconditioned gas sample flow received by the moisture sensor; a pressuresensor configured to output a pressure signal including datarepresenting a measured pressure of a conditioned gas sample flowreceived by the moisture sensor; and a controller configured to, receivethe moisture signal, the temperature signal and the pressure signal, anddetermine an adjusted moisture content for the conditioned gas sampleflow based upon the received moisture signal, temperature signal, andpressure signal.
 16. The portable moisture analyzer of claim 1, whereinthe weight of the portable moisture analyzer system is less than orequal to 50 lbs.
 17. A method of moisture analysis, comprising:receiving, an inlet of moisture analyzer positioned on instrument panel,a raw gas sample flow at a raw gas pressure and a raw gas flow rate, themoisture analyzer and the instrument panel being housed within areversibly sealable outer housing of a portable moisture analyzersystem; adjusting, by one more valves of a sample conditioning system ofthe moisture analyzer, at least one of the raw gas pressure and the rawgas flow rate to provide a conditioned gas sample flow, wherein at leasta portion of the sample conditioning system is mounted to a first sideof an instrument panel of the moisture analyzer, and one or more userinterface objects configured to control the sample conditioning systemare mounted to a second side of the instrument panel; and receiving, bya moisture sensor of the moisture analyzer, the conditioned gas samplefrom the sample conditioning system, wherein the moisture sensor ismounted to the first side of the instrument panel.
 18. The method ofclaim 17, further comprising: receiving, by a controller incommunication with the moisture sensor, a moisture signal, a pressuresignal, and a temperature signal, each signal respectively includingdata representing a moisture content, a pressure, and a temperature ofthe conditioned gas sample flow received by the moisture sensor; anddetermining, by the controller, an adjusted moisture content based uponthe received moisture signal, temperature signal, and pressure signal.19. The method of claim 17, wherein the gas source is a gas pipeline.20. The method of claim 19, further comprising, prior to receiving theraw gas sample, transporting the portable moisture analyzer system tothe site of the gas pipeline.